Intolerance towards Islam and Muslims has been increasing
in recent years alongside “Islamism”, a religiously disguised form
of political extremism. The Council of Europe should serve as the
pan-European forum for discussing common strategies for strengthening
democratic stability faced with Islamism and Islamophobia.

Social exclusion and cultural discrimination of Muslims must
not be tolerated. Islamism cannot be combated by banning symbols
of extremism and gender inequality. Inter-religious education should
be supported by member states. Institutions of higher education
and research in Europe should provide Islamic studies. Contacts
between Muslim and non-Muslim Europeans and Muslims in North Africa,
the Middle East and Asia should be facilitated, in particular among
young people, students and teachers.